Mourinho hails ‘ideal fit’ Lukaku as Man Utd get their man

Rob McCarthy

Manchester United have completed the signing of striker Romelu Lukaku from Premier League rivals Everton.

The Belgium international has signed a five-contract at Old Trafford after United had agreed a fee, believed to be an initial £75 million, with the Toffees on Saturday.

Lukaku, who scored 25 Premier League goals last season, will now link up with Mourinho’s squad in Los Angeles ahead of pre-season training.

The former Chelsea man has been training in LA with new team-mate Paul Pogba and replaces Wayne Rooney in United’s squad, with the Red Devils’ record goalscorer moving the other way.

“I would like to start by thanking Everton and the fans for the last four wonderful seasons, I have made some special friends and we have shared some amazing moments,” Lukaku told United’s official website.

“However, when Manchester United and Jose Mourinho come knocking at the door it is an opportunity of a lifetime and one that I could not turn down.

“You could see the fight, determination and the spirit in this team during the Europa League final and I want to become a part of that.

“I cannot wait to run out at Old Trafford in front of 75,000 fans but before that pre-season is where the hard work starts and I am looking forward to that first training session.”

Manager Jose Mourinho, who sanctioned Lukaku’s departure from Chelsea to Everton, says the player is ideal for Old Trafford.

“Romelu is a natural fit for Manchester United,” he added.

“He is a big personality and a big player. It is only natural that he wants to develop his career at the biggest club. He will be a great addition to the group and I know they will make him very welcome. I am really looking forward to working with him again.”

Lukaku was the subject of interest from former club Chelsea this summer but United have secured his services to reunite him with Mourinho.

Then Chelsea boss Mourinho sold him to Everton for £28million in July 2014 following a successful loan spell at Goodison Park.

The 24-year-old then netted 71 goals in all competitions on Merseyside to become one of Europe’s deadliest strikers.

Before his move was announced, Lukaku took to Instagram on Monday morning to thank the Everton fans for their support.

The post said: “I want to say a big thank you to all the people involved at Everton.

“I want to thank the fans for their support throughout the four years we’ve spent together.

“You guys helped me through all my games and I can proudly say it was an honour to play in front of you. To the staff at the stadium and the training ground, thank you for making me feel at home from the first day I walked in.

“To my team-mates it was great to play with you guys. To the technical staff, thank you for helping me to become a better player.

“Working with you guys has been a pleasure and I’ll take your advice throughout the rest of my career. Thank you Everton Football Club.”